Dimercaptosuccinic Acid Scan versus Renal Ultrasound to Investigate Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection

Investigate Abstract Objectives : To analyze the evolution of kidney damage in small female children diagnosed with recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI), a factor associated with progression of renal damage, and the importance of dimercaptosuccinicacid (DMSA) scan as a valuable indicator of early renal scars. Methods : In this retrospective study, 100 female patients aged 5 years or less, diagnosed with recurrent UTI, were recruited at Prince Rashed Military Hospital (PRH). The inclusion criteria are female patients who suffered from recurrent UTI ≥ 2 times and had visited a paediatrics specialist outpatient clinic in Prince Rashid Hospital from 1 st March 2021 to 1 st June 2022. The researchers received parents’ consent to follow the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act guidelines. Results : The peak age of children with recurrent UTI was 2-3 years, accounted 35% of the total cases. However, the peak age of children who had abnormal DMSA scans was 4-5years. The results of normal ultrasound (US) diagnosis revealed renal scars in 4% of cases. In addition, 60% of patients with 5 times recurrent UTI had a renal scar, compared to 30% with 4 times of recurrent UTI. Conclusion : Renal ultrasound is not sensitive enough to detect renal scars. DMSA scintigraphy is complementary to investigate renal scars found in pediatrics patients.